James D. Watson, whose co-discovery of the twisted-ladder structure of DNA in 1953 helped light the long fuse on a revolution in medicine, crimefighting, genealogy, and ethics, has died. He was 97. The breakthrough turned him into a hallowed figure in the world of science for decades. Watson shared a 1962 Nobel Prize with Francis Crick and Maurice Wilkins for discovering that deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA, is a double helix.
This discovery suggested how hereditary information is stored and how cells duplicate their DNA, ultimately guiding futuristic advancements like genetic editing, disease treatment, and genealogy tracing.
Despite his scientific accolades, Watson faced condemnation for offensive remarks about race, particularly his views on intelligence. His legacy is a mixture of academic brilliance and controversial opinions that have sparked ongoing discussions about ethics in science.
Watson died in hospice care after a brief illness, leaving behind a complex legacy shaped by extraordinary contributions and contentious views.
This discovery suggested how hereditary information is stored and how cells duplicate their DNA, ultimately guiding futuristic advancements like genetic editing, disease treatment, and genealogy tracing.
Despite his scientific accolades, Watson faced condemnation for offensive remarks about race, particularly his views on intelligence. His legacy is a mixture of academic brilliance and controversial opinions that have sparked ongoing discussions about ethics in science.
Watson died in hospice care after a brief illness, leaving behind a complex legacy shaped by extraordinary contributions and contentious views.
